Eat like a local

Sithonia, the middle peninsula of Halkidiki in northern Greece, is a paradise for food lovers who want to indulge in fresh, local flavors. Here’s how to eat like a local and experience the best of Sithonia’s cuisine.

1. Start the Day Right with a Greek Breakfast

Many locals enjoy a simple but hearty breakfast. Try a bougatsa, a flaky pastry filled with custard or cheese, paired with a strong Greek coffee or frappé. You’ll find excellent bougatsa in small bakeries in towns like Nikiti and Neos Marmaras.

2. Fresh Seafood by the Water

Sithonia is famous for its seafood. Visit a traditional taverna in coastal villages like Porto Koufo or Sarti and order fresh fish grilled with olive oil and lemon. Popular choices include grilled octopus, calamari, and saganaki mussels cooked in a tomato and feta sauce.

3. Traditional Greek Taverna Experience

A true local experience involves dining at a family-run taverna. Order meze (small plates) such as tzatziki, dolmades(stuffed grape leaves), and fava (yellow split pea puree). A must-try dish is slow-cooked lamb kleftiko, wrapped in parchment paper with herbs and vegetables.

4. Enjoy Local Cheese and Wine

Greece is famous for its cheeses, and Sithonia is no exception. Taste graviera, a mild hard cheese, or kasseri, a semi-hard cheese perfect for snacking. Pair them with a local white or rosé wine from one of the wineries in Porto Carras or Parthenonas.

5. Visit a Local Market

For an authentic experience, explore a local market like the one in Nikiti. You’ll find freshly picked olives, honey from Mount Athos, homemade marmalades, and extra virgin olive oil that makes for a perfect souvenir.

6. Sweet Endings: Greek Desserts

Wrap up your meals with traditional sweets like baklava, galaktoboureko (custard pie with syrup), or loukoumades(honey-drizzled dough balls). Pair them with a shot of tsipouro or ouzo for a true Greek-style ending to your meal.

7. Where to Go for the Best Local Food

• Tavernaki tou Nikola (Neos Marmaras) – Great for seafood.
• 5 Steps in the Sand (Sykia Beach) – Traditional Greek dishes by the sea.
• To Simadi (Porto Koufo) – Famous for fresh fish.
• Parthenon Taverna (Parthenonas) – Mountain village charm with local flavors.

Whether you’re feasting on fresh seafood, savoring homemade cheese, or indulging in a sweet treat, Sithonia offers an authentic taste of Greece that you won’t forget. Kali orexi (Bon appétit)!